Looking for a crash course in raising money for your small
business? The SBA has created several new online business courses,
available through its Web site (www.sba.gov). These are seven- to
30-minute self-paced learning modules organized in an
easy-to-follow format. Content is enhanced with graphics, audio and
numerous links to other useful small-business learning
resources.

One of these new e-classes "How To Raise Capital for a
Small Business" guides users through the money maze, providing
step-by-step help with preparing a bulletproof loan proposal, and
explaining exactly how banks review loan requests. The site also
offers a comprehensive training course on writing a winning
business plan, with descriptions of all the necessary
components.

Also worth checking out: the SBA's publication, How to Raise
Money for a Small Business: Business Initiatives. Read it before
trying to raise start-up money on your own. For more information,
call (800) UASK-SBA.

Kurt Samson is a freelance business writer and public
relations consultant in Annapolis, Maryland.

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